WESTON-SUPER MARE boss Frank Gregan is the early front runner for the Newport County manager's job.

Gregan is a well-respected non-league manager after taking Forest Green Rovers to the Conference as well as the FA Cup second round in the mid-nineties.

He also got Weston promoted to the Dr Martens Premier League and then the Conference South and it is rumoured that he has expressed interest in a move to Newport.

The names of former bosses Tim Harris and Colin Addison have also predictably been mentioned, but they are unlikely candidates.

The County board plan to take as much time as necessary but hope to have someone appointed in 4-6 weeks.

Nicholas' former assistant, Glyn Jones, takes control tonight at Dorchester, but for one match only.

Harris, who managed County for five and a half years until November 2002 and has recently been sacked by Forest Green Rovers, said he was shocked to hear of Peter Nicholas' dismissal as County chief yesterday.

He said: "I am a bit surprised really. I knew that things were not going great but I did not expect that.

"Obviously, I have a great amount of feeling for the club and would love the opportunity to finish the job I started."

But he added: "I think with my business commitments at the moment, it would be unlikely that I would be offered the job or would be able to take it, but you never know."

Harris did, though, give his backing to Gregan, saying he was the outstanding man for the job.

He said: "If I had to pick one name who I think could do a good job at Newport then that would be Frank Gregan. I think he would relish the challenge and would be a success there.

"But whoever they appoint, Newport County is a great club with determined people behind it and fans that deserve to have success."

Other names in the mix are former skipper Jeff Eckhardt, current captain Scott Young and even former County legend John Aldridge, who would definitely get fans excited but is likely to be too expensive.

Nigel Clough is another big name possibility as his job looks to be under threat at Burton Albion and former Swansea captain John Cornforth is also in the running.

Current Vetch Field number two Kevin Nugent would be a popular option with his knowledge of Welsh and London football and the bonus that he can also perform as a player.

It is going to be an interesting few weeks at Newport Stadium.